In the summer of 2004, I was attacked outside a club by someone with what doctors believe was a baseball bat. It was literally a moment of impact for me, which changed the direction of my life personally, professionally, and spiritually. I was left broken, bleeding, and lying in a parking lot with injuries which required no less than extensive facial bone reconstruction and two years of rehabilitation which in reality, continues on a personal and spiritual level even today. I chose to accept this tragedy as an opportunity, to forgive whoever attacked me, and to look inward and upward. This was my crossroads; to hate or to love, to have regret or to be thankful, for self pity or self improvement.
I am not perfect. I make mistakes, but every day I strive to always do the right thing. To move forward with my life in a way that has a positive impact on the people and the world around me. I realize that it is only from the path I have traveled, could I have learned to love as I do. For that I am grateful as I move forward, forever changing and hopefully forever improving.
13 Comments
Brad & Kelly Says:
Mark Kelly and I truly think you are a gift! thank you for the privilege of being a true friend and singing at our wedding! you made it perfect! you will forever be special in our hearts (our 2 hearts!)
Harold Braunstein Says:
It was great to hear you on Tom’s show today, Mark. I guess we started moving in different circles since the old days (nights) at what was Renegades, now the OzBar. From where we are now, I realize that you taught me a lot about stagecraft and boosted my self-confidence and belief in my musicianship, when you invited me up on stage all those times. I’m not playing much anymore, as my COPD has made it hard to play more than a couple of songs., and harps cost too damn much these days Even though I quit smoking about 7 years ago, rust never sleeps. I’ll be looking for your CD when it drops, anyways. I’ll friend you on Farce book so I can find out where you’re playing, and I just might drop in with my C, D and A harps… Peace, Brother Harold
Denelle Says:
My dearest Mark: We, and your family, have been friends for years. You are a brother to me. I have watched you grow in your music and am so grateful you have chosen to come back to us with your beautiful songs. I love you and will continue to enjoy watching you succeed. Always and forever your friend…, Denelle
Fallon Says:
Mark. I hope all is well with you! Lots of love from Alabama!!!
Dorothy R Says:
Mark, Love your music. I have fond memories of you and your family singing and playing at our house when you were very young. Best of wishes for a continued success
Charlene Curry Says:
It pays to follow your dreams and you sound great as ever. Continue on and make history. Love you
Janice Keyes Says:
I’m just dropping in to express my love for you, my friend Mark, and your music which fills my soul, my heart, and my spirit with love’s lifting power. Blessings to you.
Jamie Says:
Mark, love your new song and video, so good to see you again, my friend, can’t wait to talk to you!-Jamie
Noel Says:
Mark, This is Noel. Tricia and I have gone to your concerts at City of Stafford July 4th for years and we also know you from BB Wolf’s in Stafford. We loved your song “Falling in Love”. I heard about your attack and we prayed for your recovery. I hope to see more of your videos on Youtube soon. Take care and God Bless YOU!!!
Pam Bryant Says:
Mark, the night you were hurt was one of the longest of my life. Tami, Jennifer and I were coming to see you play. When we heard you were hurt we went to the hospital to see you. We waited til word came they were keeping you and it was serious. I am so proud of the way you came back from this. You are so talented God had to let you come back and sing for us. I’m very thankful for that. Love Pam
Pam Says:
Great to see you again Mark – can’t wait to catch up.
Mehrdad Vatani Says:
Mark,
YOU’re the best! Thank you for performing at the annual Bluebonnet Conference in Austin this year. It was such a great pleasure to meet you in person. Admire your humility and humbleness!
Love you and your music man.
Mehrdad
Dawnna Says:
Mark, I used to go see you at the Friday night dances at the American Legion post in Pasadena. Loved your music and your energy. I had one of your CDs from back then and someone broke into my home and stole a bunch of CDs, including yours. I miss that CD! I’m glad you are doing well. We miss you in Pasadena!